The C-block segment of the recently completed spectrum auction includes a provision for open access, which means consumers will (in theory) be able to use any wireless phone and any software they like. Verizon won the majority of the C-block licenses with its $9.4 billion bid.
If open access is truly embraced, the new spectrum could yield a host of mobile applications related to the book publishing industry, including new ebooks and ebook readers, platform-independent audio and video content (great for author interviews, book podcasts, and recommendations), and mobile book tie-ins and mash-ups.
The Web found its footing when fast connections and open source development meshed. Will mobile follow a similar trajectory?